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Training

Training competences within the safeguarding framework

There are a defined set of competences laid out in the Intercollegiate Guidance Document on Training and Competences in Adult Safeguarding (the Intercollegiate document is currently being reviewed and approved but we will publish the link to the new guidance once published, you can view the 2016 guidance vie the EHCAP website here). These range from levels one to six depending on the role of an individual within an organisation. Most healthcare professionals would require to attain level 2 competency as a minimum. Those involved in senior positions of support and training as well as investigation of potential abuses require higher levels of competency. The document gives a clear list of competences, knowledge and skills required at each level as well training requirements and the evidence required for revalidation. This document gives a detailed summary and new information about what competences and skills are required by all health professionals in adult safeguarding.

Acting on suspected abuse

Always act when abuse is suspected. This should normally be done through and in line with your own organisations internal procedures. However, if you feel that your concerns are not being dealt with adequately the National Whistleblowing Helpline (Tel: 08000 724 725) provides free confidential advice to NHS staff who are unsure whether they have a whistleblowing concern, how to raise this concern internally or escalate it externally. Whistleblowers are protected under the Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998.